Ingredient review
Dextrin Myristate
INCI: Dextrin Myristate
A mild, starch-derived emulsifier that improves product feel and stability without common irritation concerns.
In plain English
Dextrin Myristate is a gentle ingredient made from corn or potato starch combined with myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil). It helps oil and water mix together in creams and lotions, giving them a smooth, silky texture that doesn't feel heavy or greasy. Think of it as a helper that keeps your moisturizer from separating and makes it spread nicely on your skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dextrin Myristate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dextrin Myristate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Dextrin Myristate is a semi-synthetic emulsifier created by esterifying dextrin (a carbohydrate derived from starch) with myristic acid. It is a white to off-white powder that is used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and to modify the texture of cosmetic products.
How it works
In a cosmetic formula, Dextrin Myristate sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they can mix into a stable emulsion. It also forms a thin, flexible film on the skin or hair, which contributes to a smooth, velvety after-feel and helps other ingredients spread evenly.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Dextrin Myristate has a very low irritation and comedogenic rating, making it a safe choice for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Improves product feel
It gives creams and lotions a silky, velvety texture that glides on smoothly without leaving a greasy residue, enhancing the user experience.
Cons and cautions
Limited to emulsion formulas
This ingredient is primarily useful in oil-and-water mixtures; it won't add value in anhydrous balms or pure oil serums.
Potential powdery feel at high levels
If used above recommended concentrations, it can leave a slight powdery or dry finish, which may not be desired in all products.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer or sunscreen
- People with sensitive or acne-prone skin who want a gentle emulsifier
Use caution if
- Those who prefer completely water-free or anhydrous products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dextrin Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low potential for skin irritation and is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
While not extensively studied in clinical trials, Dextrin Myristate has a long history of safe use in cosmetics. Its safety profile is supported by industry data and regulatory approvals. The ingredient is well-tolerated in patch tests and is not associated with sensitization.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and most other regions. No concentration restrictions are typically imposed.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (starch and coconut oil), but the esterification process involves synthetic steps. Biodegradability is expected to be moderate.
Good to know
- Dextrin Myristate is often used in 'natural' or 'gentle' product lines because it is derived from starch and coconut fatty acids.
- It is not a preservative; products containing it still need an appropriate preservation system.
Common questions
What is Dextrin Myristate in beauty products?
Dextrin Myristate is a gentle ingredient made from corn or potato starch combined with myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil). It helps oil and water mix together in creams and lotions, giving them a smooth, silky texture that doesn't feel heavy or greasy. Think of it as a helper that keeps your moisturizer from separating and makes it spread nicely on your skin.
What does Dextrin Myristate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic formula, Dextrin Myristate sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they can mix into a stable emulsion. It also forms a thin, flexible film on the skin or hair, which contributes to a smooth, velvety after-feel and helps other ingredients spread evenly.
Is Dextrin Myristate safe for most people?
Dextrin Myristate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low potential for skin irritation and is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Dextrin Myristate?
Those who prefer completely water-free or anhydrous products
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.